Auks · Shorebirds
Black Guillemot
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Cepphus grylle
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Voice
Song
How to recognize it
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Pigeon-sized
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In summer — nearly all black, large white patch on the upper wing, coral-red feet
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Adult winter plumage: pale grey head, grey-and-white bars on back and shoulders, white underparts; wing patch retained
About the species
In summer, the Black Guillemot is almost entirely black, with a broad white patch on each wing, a slim dark bill and coral-red feet. Its winter plumage is much paler: the head and back turn grey, the underside becomes white, and the wing patches stay in place. Juveniles have grey or brown marks within the white patch.
Close to shore, it dives using its wings to move through the water and its feet to steer. It brings larger catches to the surface before swallowing them, and parents carry one prey item at a time to their chicks. During the breeding season, it gives a high whistle.
It lives along rocky northern Atlantic and Arctic coasts, nesting in cliff crevices or gaps between boulders and feeding in nearby water. Fish, crustaceans and other small sea-floor animals make up much of its food. Many stay in the same region year-round, while those from the high Arctic move south in winter as sea ice advances.
Where to find
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On rocky North Atlantic shores, look for Black Guillemots in small groups near breeding sites.
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During the breeding season, scan island cliffs above the high-tide line for crevices and gaps between boulders — pairs lay their eggs there.
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Along the inshore water, watch for dives from the surface as fish and bottom-dwelling invertebrates are caught below.
